·
To select appropriate items from the Cabinet agenda for pre-decision
scrutiny (cabinet reports enclosed for Scrutiny Members)
Minutes:
The
Committee scrutinised the following cabinet items:
Gnoll
Estate Country Park Masterplan
Members
were provided with a summary of the Gnoll Estate Country Park Masterplan and
the opportunities that the plan presents for enhancing the park.
The
Chair of the Regeneration and Sustainable Development Scrutiny Committee
commended the report on behalf of himself and the Regeneration and Sustainable
Development Scrutiny Committee. The Chair asked officers to consider broadening
the audience on the consultation to receive an extensive response in future.
Discussions
took place in relation to the lack of parking available at the location and the
potential for additional parking following the masterplan. Parking costs for
local residents were discussed, officers highlighted that all parking costs
were in line with the town centre parking.
Member
asked whether certain events that the Council had previously held at the Gnoll
Park would require relocation. Officers explained that there were discussions
taking place to ensure events of the Council can take place.
Members
highlighted that the Visitor Experience Action Plan did not include actions
around enhancing biodiversity at Gnoll Estate Country Park which was noted as a
key priority for respondents of the online survey. It was noted that the
Officer Working Group would ensure that biodiversity actions would be taken
forward within the action and plan and asked how this would be promoted and
monitored. It was explained that the officer working group was still premature
and the scrutiny arrangements would continue within the Leisure and Culture
Scrutiny Committee enabling an opportunity to continue scrutinise and monitor
this further.
Members
asked officers to consider the wildlife at the park to ensure it continues to
be a country park and preventing a reduction of wildlife.
Following
scrutiny, the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet
Board.
Neath
Business Improvement District Re Ballot
Members
were informed of the intention of Neath Inspired (BID) to take a renewal ballot
for another five year term within the Neath Town Centre area.
Members
relayed concerns in relation to the levy that businesses would be required to
pay, if they were in the BID zone. In addition, concerns were raised over
theongoing difficulties businesses face due to the loss of income caused by the coronaviruspandemic.
Officers
assured members that they understood their current reservations but, on
balance, felt that the BID renewal could support local business recovery from
the pandemic over the next five years. .
With regard to the levy payment Members were advised that such a payment
would only be payable by businesses with an aggregated rateable value of £6K or
more. All businesses rated below this threshold would be exempt.
Following
scrutiny, the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the
Cabinet Board.
IT
Equipment for Schools
Members
were updated on the Council processing and providing IT equipment for children
in all schools.
Members
noted and commended the work that had been involved in ensuring Blended
Learning could succeed and the importance of attaining the equipment. It was
asked whether training and software packages had been considered in line with
the distribution of the IT equipment. Officers confirmed that training and
software packages had been considered. It was highlighted that pupils would be
accessing different platforms to achieve blended learning and schools were
providing training on usage of the software and equipment.
Following
scrutiny, the Committee was supportive of the proposal to be considered by the Cabinet
Board.